Table of Contents (Detailed)

Step by Step Research & WritingWhy the Step by Step Approach?Step 1 - Getting Started - preparing for the assignment and getting ready to choose a topic1.1 Understand the assignment1.2 Consider the process you'll use1.3 Set deadlines for each step of the assignment1.4 Think about possible topics1.5 Info Search - browse, read, relax1.6 Relate your prior experience and learning1.7 Jot down your questions and ideas about possible topics1.8 Brainstorm, alone and with othersScheduling Your Project - a worksheet to print out

Step 2 - Discovering and Choosing a Topic - reading to become informed2.1 Info Search - read for overview of various topics2.2 Continue thinking and jotting questions and ideas2.3 Info Survey - what print and electronic resources are available?2.4 Try different topics on for "size" - see how they fit

Step 5 - Preparing to Write - analyzing and organizing your information and forming a thesis statement5.1 Analyze and organize your information5.2 Construct a thesis statement and try it on for size5.3 Weed out irrelevant information5.4 Info Search - fill in the gaps

Step 6 - Writing the Paper - writing, revising and finalizing6.1 Think about the assignment, the audience and the purpose6.2 Prepare an outline6.3 Write the rough draft6.4 Know how to use your source materials and cite them6.5 Have others read and critique the paper6.6 Revise and proofread